A STORE in a south Essex shopping centre has been transformed into a makeshift donation centre for supplies to be sent to Ukranian refugees fleeing Russia’s invasion.

Canvey Rotary Club has been able to open a “Ukraine appeal centre” in an shop at the Knightswick Shopping Centre on Canvey.

After being granted permission to take control of the empty shop, the Rotary Club is using the site as a base for residents to drop off donations which will be picked up and delivered to Poland.

The donation centre is next to the Nationwide and was formally Rio Coffee.

Anne Earl, the president of the Rotary Club of Canvey and member of the group for six years, wanted to help as much as she could.

The 68-year-old said: “We are very grateful to the Castlepoint Council for allowing us to use the unit at the Knightswick Centre on Canvey.

“We officially opened this morning and will be open seven days a week during normal working hours.

“Rotary not only help their local communities but are a worldwide organisation and step up whenever they have the opportunity to help.

She added: “We have an amazing community who always support what Rotary do and this project is no exception with people already coming through our door with their donations.

Southend Rotary Club has also been on hand to help, organising for a “shelter box” to be sent to refugees.

Daryl Peagram, treasurer of the club for the past three years, said they would send a the box, which contain tents and housing repair equipment.

Mr Peagram, 50, added: “We are horrified at the refugee, medical and military crisis unfolding in Ukraine.

“Clubs are not allowed to comment on international politics, but we note that Rotary Great Britain & Ireland has said we stand with the people of Ukraine, calls for ceasefire and withdrawal.” Residents in Southend have also been keen to offer help in any way possible, with Southend Council pointing residents toward the “Essex is United for Ukraine” Facebook page.

The page has been set up as a collaboration between Essex County Council, Facebook admins, and the public health team and Southend Council has pointed anyone willing to help in the direction of the group.

Anne Jones, cabinet member for communities and housing, said: “It is heart-breaking to see what is happening to the people of the Ukraine and it’s natural for us to want to reach out and offer any support we can.

“There is a lot happening in our local community and as a council, we are doing what we can to offer support to those people who are working so hard.

“The UK Government is advising people to use registered charities to get cash to the aid workers on the ground, helping those people displaced by the fighting taking place in the Ukraine.

“If you’d prefer to use a local collection point, please make sure the items you donate are appropriate, in a good reusable condition, and that food items are in date. And to all those who donate, please let me thank you in advance for showing true Southend spirit in your generosity and kindness.”

Residents have also been pointed in the direction of www.gov.uk/government/news/ukraine-what-you-can-do-to-help and urged to give safely to registered charities.